In a dramatic prelude to one of the most anticipated tag team matches of the year, Dax Harwood of FTR (Cash Wheeler & Dax Harwood) has publicly vowed to retire from professional wrestling if his team loses to Adam Copeland and Christian Cage at the upcoming AEW All Out 2025 pay-per-view in Toronto. This bold proclamation has added a new layer of intensity and stakes as both teams gear up to clash on September 20 at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario.

The rivalry between FTR and the reunited legends Copeland and Cage has reached a fever pitch after a series of escalating confrontations. Once allies, all three men were part of the faction Rated-FTR earlier this year before FTR shockingly turned on Copeland in April during AEW’s Dynasty event, igniting the bitter feud that now headlines All Out[2]. Harwood’s retirement vow confirms just how personal and high-stakes this bout has become, signaling that the match is not only a battle for supremacy but potentially a career-defining moment.

The Build-Up: A Storyline Rich in History and Drama

The storyline at play is a compelling fusion of past loyalties and present animosities. Originally allies, FTR and Copeland teamed throughout early 2025 and even secured victories as a trio — notably against the Death Riders faction at Fight for the Fallen on January 1[2]. However, the alliance dissolved when FTR attacked Copeland after failing to capture the AEW World Trios Championship, turning them heel and setting the stage for their intense rivalry.

Christian Cage’s recent return and subsequent teaming with Copeland has reignited the legendary partnership, reminiscing their days as the famous tag team Edge and Christian from WWE. Fans will witness their first tag team match since 2011[2][5]. The home advantage for Copeland and Cage is significant as the event takes place in their Canadian hometown, adding emotional fuel to an already explosive matchup.

AEW’s Stern Warning and Heavy Fines Ahead of All Out

The heightened animosity has led AEW management to impose strict rules to contain the escalating tensions. According to an official AEW statement on social media, both teams have been warned that no physical contact is permitted before the event’s official match. Should either side violate this directive, they will face heavy fines[1]. This unprecedented warning reflects AEW’s desire to keep the match fresh for the pay-per-view crowd and maintain competitive integrity.

What Dax Harwood’s Retirement Promise Means for FTR and AEW

Dax Harwood’s public vow to retire if FTR loses is rare in today’s pro wrestling landscape where storylines often extend over months or years. One source close to the AEW locker room told Fightful, “Dax putting his career on the line shows just how much this match means to him personally. It’s a massive gamble but one that makes for captivating storytelling and certainly raises the stakes like never before.”

From a booking perspective, this angle could signal either a major storyline culmination or a legitimate career crossroads moment for Harwood, which has fans and analysts speculating about the future direction of FTR. If FTR were to lose, Harwood’s retirement could shift AEW’s tag team dynamics significantly and open doors for other emerging teams.

The Match Itself: What Fans Can Expect

Promoted as a clash between hardcore technicians and charismatic legends, this match promises a perfect blend of high-octane wrestling and emotionally charged storytelling. FTR is revered for their crisp tag team fundamentals and hard-hitting style, while Copeland and Cage bring decades of experience, crowd connection, and resilience.

Insiders suggest that both teams are pulling out all stops in training and rehearsals, knowing the match could be a showstopper and a defining moment of the 2025 AEW calendar. The added retirement vow from Harwood means the energy backstage and on camera is palpable, setting the stage for a historic showdown[3][6].

Cross-Promotional Challenges: AEW vs WWE on the Same Night

Adding to the intrigue, WWE is running its own Wrestlepalooza event simultaneously, creating a rare competitive scenario for pro wrestling fans and companies alike. According to Sportskeeda, this direct clash between AEW and WWE on September 20 tests Tony Khan’s ability to draw viewership and deliver a card strong enough to compete with a top WWE event[1]. AEW’s All Out 2025, anchored by this headline tag team match, is crucial in this promotional battle.

Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz

Since Harwood’s announcement, the wrestling community has exploded with reactions on Twitter and other platforms. Fans have praised FTR’s commitment, with many expressing excitement for what could be a career-defining match. Others have debated the seriousness of the retirement claim but acknowledge that the high stakes add gravity to the storyline.

Additional Card Highlights and Event Details

Besides this marquee tag match, AEW All Out 2025 features a robust card including mixed tag team brawls, title defenses, and rising star showcases. The event kicks off live at 3 p.m. ET / Noon PT, available on PPV and streaming platforms such as HBO Max[1][5].

In summary, the Dax Harwood retirement vow elevates the FTR vs. Adam Copeland and Christian Cage match to a historic bout teeming with narrative significance and real consequence. Wrestling fans worldwide will be watching closely on September 20 as these iconic teams clash in Toronto, possibly reshaping careers and AEW’s tag team landscape forever.

According to sources close to Cody Rhodes and AEW management, expect an electric atmosphere and a contest that lives up to the fierce rivalry and high stakes promised in the lead-up. This match is not just about wins and losses — it could mark the end of an era or the crowning of new legends in professional wrestling[2][3].